The Sky City Tower is on the far left, and the sleeping volcano Rangitoto rises on the horizon on the far right. Auckland is New Zealand's biggest city, but from what I have learned is not big by world standards at all! For this small time country girl its about as big as I can cope with without going crazy. Its amazing growing up where everyone knows everyone, with such a blinkered view on life how much I do love Auckland.
I love the cultural diversity and the anonymity. I am not actually sure if it is more tolerance or autonomy that makes it work, i think probably the latter. I was talking over a pot of peppermint tea in the cafe with a good friend of mine the other day about the New Zealand identity, his view point was that our identity is being lost with the introduction of new cultures and in an increasing population. I struggle with this thought. I for one embrace diversity - after all arent we all "new " to New Zealand when compared with how long other countries have been populated?
I recently read and recommend "Myth New Zealand" by Justin Brown, here's how he introduces his book "Ever wondered what happened to the Good Keen Man? Where are the new Burt Munroes? If the Pavlova is our national dish, why can't we find it in restaurants? When's the last time you used number eight wire? I love my country but it's time we put it through a 21st Century reality check" - like I say worth a read!
This Christmas I would like to encourage you to give-a-fig for all "New" Zealander's, I know it is a difficult time for those with family overseas, and for those whose families although close are divided. Spare a thought also for all those lonely people at Christmas, I know for me the "Lonely Day" song by SYSTEM OF A DOWN always takes me back to a particular Christmas when the people I loved most in the world weren't able to share it with me.
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Have a Fantastic New Year to all xx
